19 MPG combined. That’s what you can expect from the 2020 Lexus LC 500 with its 5.0L V8. Anyone considering this grand touring coupe has to accept that. This isn’t the car for saving money on fuel. It’s for maximizing driving pleasure and those two rarely perfectly align. The LC 500 is an experience, a statement, and a rolling work of art. Its owners understand the soundtrack and sensory engagement provided by its naturally aspirated engine come at a price at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the LC 500 gets 16 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go conditions where the V8 works harder. The 10-speed automatic transmission spends much of its time shifting. The highway figure is more reasonable. It showcases the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at lower RPMs, although still not at the levels seen in turbocharged rivals. These numbers reflect the LC 500’s design; it isn’t engineered for ultimate efficiency but rather for a balance of performance and refinement, with an emphasis on the former.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Lexus LC 500 at $3,050. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of the estimate. This is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the grade of fuel you use. The LC 500 requires premium fuel, so it’s important to factor that into your budget. The price difference between regular and premium gasoline can significantly add to your expenses over the course of a year.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, but real-world fuel economy can often differ. Drivers who frequently enjoy the LC 500’s performance, and accelerate hard, will likely see fuel economy figures closer to the city estimate, or even lower. However, those who prioritize smooth, relaxed driving on the open road might achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the highway estimate. Driving style and conditions play a big role in determining the LC 500’s actual fuel consumption.

How it compares

Compared to other luxury coupes, the LC 500’s fuel economy is on the lower end. A BMW 8 Series Coupe with the 4.4L V8 manages around 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, while some turbocharged six-cylinder variants can achieve even better numbers. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe is another competitor. It also offers models with comparable or slightly better fuel economy depending on the engine. Even the hybrid version of the LC, the LC 500h, provides significantly improved fuel efficiency, offering a combined rating in the high 20s. The LC 500’s fuel consumption is a deliberate tradeoff many buyers make. They prioritize the unique character and naturally aspirated power delivery over efficiency, differentiating it from competitors.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and instead drive in a smooth way. The LC 500’s V8 is responsive, but it’s also thirsty when pushed hard. Driving gently will make a noticeable difference in fuel consumption.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps to minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can improve fuel economy, particularly LC MPG across all years. Set your desired speed and let the car maintain it. This reduces driver fatigue while improving less gas used.

Proper tire inflation is important for lower fuel costs and safety. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance. This reduces fuel economy, and can also affect handling and tire wear. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the correct tire pressure information.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s more efficient to turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to start quickly and reliably, so there’s no need to let them idle.

Consider using the LC 500’s Eco drive mode when appropriate. It might slightly subdue the car’s responsiveness, but it optimizes engine and transmission settings for better fuel economy. Eco mode can be helpful during city driving or when cruising on the highway where maximum performance isn’t required. For all Lexus fuel economy data, fuel usage depends on driving conditions.